Basel, Montreux, Zurich, Lucerne, Bern… Discover the most beautiful Christmas markets in Switzerland, their dates, specialities and our tips to enjoy them.
Every winter, Switzerland dresses up in lights and the scent of spices. From late November to late December, the Christmas markets bring the old towns and lakeshores to life. This guide presents the most beautiful Christmas markets in Switzerland, what you'll find there and our tips to enjoy them to the full.
The most beautiful Christmas markets at a glance
- Basel: the largest in Switzerland, on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz.
- Montreux Noël: magical on the shores of Lake Geneva, with the flying Santa Claus.
- Zurich: several markets, including the station's "Christkindlimarkt" with its Swarovski tree.
- Lucerne: a medieval atmosphere at the foot of the mountains.
- Bern: the illuminated UNESCO old town and its arcades.
Basel, Switzerland's largest market
Regularly voted one of the finest in Europe, Basel's market spreads its chalets across two squares, Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz. You'll find crafts, hand-blown decorations, candles and sweet specialities. The atmosphere is especially warm around the cathedral (Münster).
Montreux and the Lake Geneva Riviera
On the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux Noël is one of the most magical in the country: hundreds of chalets, illuminations and the famous flying Santa Claus crossing the sky above the lake. A trip up to Chillon Castle or the Rochers-de-Naye extends the magic.
Zurich, Lucerne and Bern
Zurich has several markets, including the covered Christkindlimarkt in the main station, with its huge tree decorated with Swarovski crystals, and the Niederdorf market in the old town. Lucerne charms with its medieval lakeside setting, and Bern illuminates its UNESCO-listed old town, ideal for a stroll under the arcades, sheltered from the cold.
What to enjoy at a Christmas market?
- Mulled wine (Glühwein) and spiced apple juice.
- Raclette and fondue served at stands.
- Roasted chestnuts (vermicelles, hot chestnuts) and gingerbread.
- Christmas biscuits: Mailänderli, Basel Brunsli, Zimtsterne.
To round off the evening in the warmth, find a restaurant via the dining category and book a table on the Reservation page.
Practical tips
The markets usually open from late November to 24 December; check the exact dates each year. Late afternoon is best to enjoy the illuminations. Dress warmly and come by train: city centres are often pedestrianised and very busy in the evening.
Plan your Christmas stay with TOP SUISSE
With TOP SUISSE, find all these businesses right near you: restaurants, bars and gourmet addresses around the markets are easy to discover by browsing the categories or running a search by city. To complete your trip, also read our guides the most beautiful cities to visit and a weekend in Switzerland.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful Christmas market in Switzerland?
Basel is often cited as the largest and one of the finest, but Montreux Noël charms with its lakeside setting and flying Santa Claus. Zurich, Lucerne and Bern also offer remarkable markets.
When do the Swiss Christmas markets take place?
Most open from late November to 24 December. The exact dates vary each year by city, so it is wise to check before you travel.
What do you eat at a Swiss Christmas market?
Mulled wine, raclette and fondue at stands, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread and Christmas biscuits such as Mailänderli and Basel Brunsli.
How do you get to the Christmas markets?
The train is ideal: the markets are held in the heart of cities, often in pedestrian areas that are very busy in the evening. This avoids parking difficulties.
